Dental problems affect all age categories, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, have consequences in all aspects of life and are associated with conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even certain types of cancer – these are just a few of the conclusions of the “global oral health status” report, which is still the world, precarious oral health on the quality of life.
Taking into account all these aspects, On the occasion of World Oral Health Day, celebrated, every year, on March 20, it is important for Romanians to raise awareness of its importance for the general well -being and the need to solve dental problems.
This happens in the context in which About 8 out of 10 Romanians are facing at least one dental problem, according to a 2023 study conducted at Haleon’s request. Thus, the study(1)
It shows that 42% of Romanians have cavities, 33% face tartar, 22% have sensitive teeth, 18% experienced gingival bleeding, 16% experience gum withdrawal, 15% report bad breath, and 14% have yellow teeth.
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WHO: Dental issues are associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even certain types of cancer
Dental problems are cumulative, progressive and chronic and, when not treated in time, lead to physical, social and mental consequences for all age categories, from children, to adolescents, adults and seniors. It is also shown in the WHO report, oral health is an integral part of the general health, with a bi-directorial connection between the two. In recent decades, multiple studies have demonstrated association between dental problems and various other body disorders. Some of the most such studies indicate, for example, the connection between severe periodontal disease and diabetesTreating the periodontal disease, bringing an improvement in the symptoms of diabetes, the WHO ratio shows.
Another association has been demonstrated between Severe periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, respectively, to a lesser extent, cerebro-vascular disease or chronic pulmonary obstructive disease. Moreover, links have been discovered Between caries and loss of teeth, on the one hand, and loss of cognitive abilities, certain cancers and various pneumonia, on the other. It is also shown in the “oral health status” made by WHO. Although the research is still in the beginning, these associations are supported by common biological factors, such as infection, inflammation, microbiom and immune responses, but also by various behavioral and social aspects.
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The impact of dental problems on children
In the case of children, the WHO shows, untreated caries can lead to acute infections, dental pain and discomfort, which affects the little ones to eat, to speak, learn and sleep. In severe cases, untreated caries can have a negative impact on nutrition, which affects weight gain and gain. Dental pain can also reduce the presence of children at school, affecting their educational performance.
In Romania, oral problems can also be emphasized by the fact that 47% of children begin too late dental brushingbecause parents do not pay enough attention to their oral hygiene, according to a study(2)
Recently made at the Haleon Romania initiative, attended by 300 parents between the ages of 20 and 50 who have children between the ages of 1 and 12. This happens in the context in which 52% of parents reported that their little ones consume sweets at least once a day10% of their parents stated that they were often happening in the situation where their child did not wash their teeth during the day, while an even higher percentage, 19%, confessed that their child goes to bed without brushing.
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The impact of dental problems on adults
Adults can face a wide range of dental problems, which have consequences on all aspects of life, from general health to mental state. Moreover, in severe cases, they can even affect employment opportunities and reduce productivity, according to WHO report. In fact, a study conducted in the US has shown that 243 million hours of productivity are lost annually due to toothache or dental problems(3).
However, many dental problems may go unnoticed or may be considered minor until the time of exacerbation. According to the report “Health status of the population” realized by the NIS – National Institute of Statistics(4)for example, most Romanians up to 65 have declared a good and very good oral health, while only 30.0% of people aged 65-74 and 14.3% of people aged 75 and years and have stated that they have a good and very good oral health.
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Impact of dental problems on seniors:
A precarious oral health among older people can affect daily activities and exacerbate age -specific problems. Seniors with dental problems are experiencing pain, chewing and nutrition difficulties or even nutritional deficiencies. Fragile elderly people, who live in long -term care centers, often have high oral care needs, which can complicate other existing conditions.
According to the INS, starting with the age of 55, over half of Romanian men and almost half of women declare moderate, bad or very bad health (51.3% of men and 47.5% of women in the age group 55-64 years), and the situation is aggravated with the age, so that the state of 67 is perceived. The age group 65-74 years and 84.5% of men and 86.5% of women 75 years old and over.
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5 surprising tips for oral health offered by Haleon specialists on the occasion of the World Health Day
Every year, on March 20, World Oral Health Day is celebrated. The date was chosen because 20 represents the ideal number of milk teeth in the case of children, and 32 (3/20) symbolizes the complete dental set of adults. On this occasion, Haleon Romania reminds the Romanians of the importance of improving oral health and reiterates the need to increase access to quality dental care, two of its key objectives. Specialists from Haleon Romania reiterate 5 lesser known tips for oral health:
1.
The rinse of the toothpaste with water after brushing is a mistake
Although most people rinse their mouths after brushing their teeth, the reality is that … they don’t have to do so. For the fluoride in the paste to act, after brushing the mouth should not be rinsed, and for at least 30 minutes the consumption of food or drinks should be avoided.
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Brushing should take 2 minutes
The brushing of the teeth for 2 minutes eliminates with one third more bacterial plate compared to a brushing of only 45 seconds.
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Dental problems may indicate other diseases – dental consultation is essential
Frequent oral infections may indicate conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, while gum withdrawal may be a sign of osteoporosis. Moreover, a dry language can signal a deficiency of vitamins B12, C or D. Regular visits to the dentist are essential for detecting such conditions.
4.
Oral care must start from birth
The recommendation of specialists for parents is to start the hygiene of the baby from the first months of life – at the latest when the first tooth appears. During this period, the mucosa and gingival folds of the baby should be easily cleaned twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, using a sterile wool buffer in water. Subsequently, the transition to oral hygiene products adapted to their age is made.
5.
Sensitive teeth should not be neglected
The main cause of dental sensitivity is the exposure of the dentin layer, caused by factors such as gum regression, dental enamel or too aggressive brushing. Clinical Studies show that the use of a suitable toothpaste is a first step to eliminate discomfort caused by sensitive teeth(5).
About haleon
Haleon is one of the largest producers and suppliers of oral health products in the world. Having in the portfolio brands supported by scientific expertise, including Sensodyne and periodontax brands, Haleon focuses on improving and maintaining oral health. The objective of the company is to promote and improve access to quality dental care through education, research and partnerships with dental professionals.
Global leader in consumers’ health, Haleon offers daily health products with humanity. The company’s product portfolio covers five major categories, including oral health, pain relief, respiratory health, vitamins, minerals and supplements (VMS). His consecrated marks – Sensodyne, Voltaren, Panadol, Advil, Parasinus, Theraflu, Vibrocil, Corega, Periodontax and Centrum – are developed based on science, innovation and deep human understanding. For more information, we invite you to visit: www.haleon.com.
(1) The study “Penetration Tracker” conducted by Ipsos at the request of Haleon. Information for 2023, reflecting experiences of the last 12 months
(2) Study based on a survey conducted between January and February 2025, through the IPSOS.digital platform on a sample of 300 parents between the ages of 20 and 50 who have children between 1 and 12 years old, at the Haleon Romania initiative
(3) “The Hour of Need: Productivity Time Lost Due to Urgent Oral Health Needs ” Published by Carequest Institute for Oral Health
(4) Ins report – state_de_sanatate_a_populatiei_din_romania_2019.pdf
(5) Non-Surgical Management of Tooth Hypersensity, Danielle Clark, Leran Levin Int Dent J.2020, Oct 31; 66 (5): 249-256. two: 10.1111/IDJ.12247
